The Dordogne museums are numerous and cover different themes such as prehistory, of course, but also archaeology, photography and even contemporary art. From Bergerac to Périgueux via Les Eyzies, follow the guide to better understand the history of France!
Museums to discover in Les Eyzies, in Périgord.
The National Museum of Prehistory, the essential visit to the Dordogne
It is indeed difficult not to pass through the doors of this museum which was renovated and enlarged in 2004. The National Museum of Prehistory has been, since its creation at the beginning of the last century, the place of reference for all prehistorians. It has also become a must for all lovers of Prehistory: it must be said that more than 18 pieces are exhibited over more than 000 m². The visit continues to improve. In addition to the permanent collection, there are temporary exhibitions, always exciting. For children, booklets-games and activities are offered to spend a unique moment with the family.
Prehistory Interpretation Center, a free interpretation center, open to all
Personalized temporary exhibitions are regularly organized to offer a new perspective on prehistoric knowledge. You can also take advantage of animations planned throughout the year and most often for children.
The Cro-Magnon shelter, a renovated museum
It is in 1868 that the first burial of a modern man, Cro-Magnon, was discovered. The place has today become a museum which has recently been renovated to always improve the scenographic proposal. The visit takes place through a fun and interactive course to meet our ancestor. From neophyte children to more erudite people, all visitors learn to better understand prehistoric men beyond the usual clichés.
All these museums allow you to complete your knowledge of Prehistory, after a visit to Lascaux, For example. Temporary exhibitions but also permanent collections on this heritage of the department are accessible in various places in the Vézère valley such as the Regourdou, the Thoth,…
Castle museums de Dordogne
Each castle has its history, often linked to the great History of France. A visit to each of these monuments is essential during your stay in the Dordogne!
The Maison Forte de Reignac museum
It is called the most mysterious and secret castle in Périgord. So don’t hesitate to visit the reconstructed rooms of this residence clinging to the side of a cliff. And don't miss the torture museum, it's worth the detour!
The Middle Ages War Museum in Castelnaud Castle
Built on a rocky outcrop, the Castelnaud castle has housed the Museum of War in the Middle Ages, in which the weapons used by the lords and the life-size war machines are on display.
Other museums not to be missed in Dordogne
The station: Robert Doisneau and his love of the Dordogne valley
If you do not know the Carlux station, it's time to go! Robert Doisneau had taken it into photo when he had come to spend his first paid leave in the Dordogne valley. He will be faithful to this destination throughout his life. Since 2018, you can come and admire his “slices of life”. Don’t hesitate to try the Lab’s digital and interactive experience. You and your children will be able to learn about all the stages of developing a photo from the film era.
Vesunna, the Gallo-Roman site of Périgueux revisited by Jean Nouvel
We move away from the Périgord Noir to make an excursion into the Perigord Blanc in Périgueux. Vesunna is a museum of art and archeology from Périgueux. If this museum is remarkable for its contemporary architecture, the exhibitions are also fascinating and numerous workshops are planned for the youngest.
Ecomuseums to discover in Dordogne
If you want to know other facets of the heritage of the Dordogne and Périgord, you can visit other places such as the following eco-museums:
The wine museum in Saint-Pierre-de-Chignac in the Lardimalie winery, the chocolate museum in Terrasson-Lavilledieu, the Domaine de Vielcroze in Castelanud-la-Chapelle, the paper ecomuseum in Couze-et-Saint -Forehead but also the ecomuseum of March 31, 1944 in Rouffignac-Saint-Cernin-de-Reihac. And why not visit Bergerac the Costi museum or the tobacco museum (which does not promote cigarettes)?
